Delhi Among the Worst-Affected Cities
A recent meta-analysis has found that one in five Indians suffers from vitamin D deficiency, with Delhi ranking among the cities most affected. The deficiency cuts across all social groups—including children, athletes, military personnel, outdoor workers, and healthcare professionals—highlighting the widespread nature of the issue.
New Study Highlights Urban Health Crisis
These findings come from a study titled “Roadmap to Address Vitamin D Deficiency in India”, jointly conducted by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) and NGO ANVKA Foundation. The report was released on Tuesday and paints a concerning picture of urban India’s nutritional landscape.
Vadodara and Surat Top the List
The analysis uncovered alarmingly high deficiency rates in several Indian cities:
- Vadodara: 89%
- Surat: 88%
- Jaipur: 81%
- Kolkata: 79%
- Mumbai: 78%
- Delhi: 72%
Young Indians Face Serious Risk
As reported by TOI, the deficiency is especially pronounced among India’s youth. Among those under 25 years, 84% showed vitamin D deficiency, while the 25–40 age group had an 81% deficiency rate. These figures signal a looming public health challenge for the country’s future workforce.
Far-Reaching Health Consequences
Experts stress that vitamin D is crucial for bone health, with deficiencies leading to severe disorders such as rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. Additionally, it contributes to muscle weakness, fatigue, and depression. Beyond skeletal issues, low vitamin D levels are linked to higher risks of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancers like breast and prostate cancer.
“A Silent Epidemic,” Say Experts
Dr. Aashish Chaudhry, Managing Director of Aakash Healthcare and co-author of the report, emphasized the gravity of the situation:
“Vitamin D deficiency is a silent epidemic affecting millions, yet it remains largely overlooked. Its impact goes beyond weak bones—it compromises immunity, heightens chronic disease risk, and burdens families and the healthcare system economically.”
He called for collaborative action involving policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the food industry to promote fortified nutrition, awareness campaigns, and preventive health strategies.
“This report is a vital step toward a healthier, stronger, and more productive India,” he added.
Multiple Factors Behind the Crisis
The report identifies the most vulnerable groups as children, adolescents, pregnant women, and the elderly. Several interrelated factors contribute to the widespread deficiency:
- Urban air pollution reducing sun exposure
- Increased indoor time due to lifestyle changes
- Low intake of vitamin D-rich foods like fish, eggs, and fortified dairy
- Cultural food practices and dairy intolerance, with only 8–14% of Indians consuming recommended dairy levels
- Vegetarian diets, followed by 30% of the population, further limit dietary vitamin D sources
Barriers to Sunlight and Supplementation
Other challenges include darker skin tones, which require 3–6 times longer sun exposure for vitamin D synthesis, and cultural preferences for skin protection. Economic barriers also restrict access—testing costs over ₹1,500, and supplements range from ₹48 to ₹130 for 10 tablets.
Call for Policy-Level Intervention
Dr. Arpita Mukherjee, Professor at ICRIER, emphasized the need for strategic policymaking:
“The report highlights the urgency for coordinated action against vitamin D deficiency. By closing policy gaps, supporting further research, and introducing comprehensive interventions, India can move closer to achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) on health and nutrition by 2030.”